The Central Electoral Board Leaves the Decision in the Hands of the Provincials
The Central Electoral Board (JEC) has declined to make a decision on the extension of voting hours after the incident that has paralyzed the Rodalies network in Barcelona and has left the decision in the hands of the provincial boards.
The JEC considers that the legislation only provides for the extension of voting hours in the event of interruption of the electoral process due to lack of ballots or force majeure.
Furthermore, the JEC has indicated that the suspension of the Rodalies service has been known since early in the morning, which has given the affected citizens time to look for alternative means of transportation.
Junts and ERC Ask to Extend Voting Hours
The pro-independence parties Junts and ERC have asked the provincial electoral boards to extend voting hours due to the Rodalies chaos.
They consider that the reduction in transportation options may affect electoral participation, especially in areas affected by the incidents.
The Provincial Boards Consider the Possibility
The provincial electoral boards of Tarragona, Lleida and Girona have sent Junts and ERC’s request to extend voting hours to the JEC.
The Barcelona electoral board, for its part, has chosen to request a report from Renfe on the situation.
Candidates Criticize the Operation of Rodalies
Several electoral candidates, including those from ERC, PP, Vox and CUP, have criticized the operation of the railway network after the Rodalies incidents.
They have called for urgent measures to be taken to improve the service and guarantee the right to vote for all citizens.
Electoral Participation Could Be Affected
The Rodalies chaos could have a negative impact on electoral participation, especially in areas where the incidents have been more serious.
Provincial election boards will need to carefully weigh the arguments for and against extending voting hours to ensure that all citizens have the opportunity to exercise their right to vote.
The Final Decision in the Hands of the Provincial Boards
The final decision on whether or not to extend voting hours rests with the provincial electoral boards.
These boards will need to consider all relevant factors, including the potential impact on voter turnout, and make a decision that ensures the integrity of the electoral process.